Real Madrid’s season planning has once again been disrupted by events on the treatment table. Injuries, suspensions and a demanding fixture list have combined to leave the Spanish giants short of options in defence, forcing the club to look beyond their original plans and consider short-term fixes.
According to reports from Fichajes, Real Madrid want to sign Abdukodir Khusanov on loan and have taken an exploratory step by contacting Manchester City to enquire about the availability of the defender
The move is described as an information-gathering exercise rather than a concrete bid, but it underlines how seriously Madrid are treating their current situation.
The club’s recruitment policy in recent seasons has been defined by patience and long-term thinking. Madrid have preferred to wait for the right player rather than rush into deals that could block future development or create financial strain.
However, the current defensive shortage has pushed the club into a more flexible mindset, at least in the short term.
Khusanov’s profile appears to align with that thinking. Young, highly rated and already part of one of Europe’s elite squads, the centre-back is seen as someone who could step in and contribute immediately without tying the club into a permanent commitment. Therefore, the report that Real Madrid want to sign Abdukodir Khusanov would provide cover now, while keeping the club’s long-term strategy intact.
The interest also reflects Madrid’s broader belief in squad balance. With so many key games on the horizon, the coaching staff are keen to avoid overloading the remaining defenders.
A temporary reinforcement would ease the pressure and allow the team to manage minutes more effectively across competitions.
A defender seeking minutes at the top level
Despite being regarded as a promising talent, Khusanov has found opportunities hard to come by at Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola’s side is known for its depth and tactical complexity, and breaking into the starting line-up is a challenge even for established internationals.
As a result, Khusanov has spent much of his time on the fringes, making only limited appearances.
This lack of regular football is a concern for both player and club. Manchester City are conscious that development at a young age depends heavily on consistent match exposure, especially at elite level.
Training in a world-class environment offers benefits, but competitive minutes are essential for growth.
A loan move has therefore emerged as a logical solution. City are understood to be open to the idea, provided the destination meets their standards.
From their perspective, a club like Real Madrid represents an ideal environment: high expectations, intense competition and global exposure.
For Khusanov, the opportunity would be significant. Moving to Madrid, even temporarily, would place him under constant scrutiny but also offer the chance to prove himself on one of football’s biggest stages.
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The pressure that comes with wearing the white shirt is considerable, but it is also seen as a valuable test of character and ability.
Meanwhile, at this stage, there is no discussion of a mandatory purchase clause. That detail is important, as it highlights Madrid’s intention to keep their options open.
If the loan proves successful, further talks could follow, but there is no obligation built into the current concept.
The context behind Madrid’s enquiry is crucial. Eder Militao and David Alaba are both currently sidelined, significantly reducing the number of experienced defenders available. With only three senior centre-backs fit, the margin for error is slim.
Xabi Alonso, tasked with navigating this challenging period, has few options to reshuffle his back line.
Young players from the academy can offer support, but relying heavily on inexperienced options in high-stakes games carries obvious risks. A short-term signing, therefore, becomes an attractive safety measure.